Sentence Improvement - Verbal and Reasoning

Directions to SolveIn questions given below, a part of the sentence isitalicised and underlined. Below are given alternatives to the italicised part which may improve the sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case no improvement is needed, option 'D' is the answer.
Q1:

When it was feared that the serfs might go too far and gain their freedom from serfdom, the protestant leaders joined the princes at crushing them.

A into crushing

B in crushing

C without crushing

D No improvement

ANS:B - in crushing

No answer description is available.